Rishab Shetty’s Kantara: Chapter 1 has achieved what few thought possible — it has officially become the highest-grossing film of all time in Karnataka, rewriting box office history in just under two weeks.
The film earned around Rs. 4.75 crore on its second Tuesday, an impressive figure for any release, taking its total collection in the state to over Rs. 174 crore. With this, it has surpassed Shetty’s own Kantara: A Legend (2022) to claim the number-one spot.
In only 13 days, Kantara: Chapter 1 managed to break long-standing records, a feat even the biggest blockbusters couldn’t match. The film is now on track to cross the Rs. 200 crore mark in Karnataka — something no movie has ever done — and trade experts believe it might even touch Rs. 250 crore, especially with the Diwali holidays around the corner.
Industry analysts say the film’s success isn’t just about numbers — it’s about connection. Like its predecessor, Kantara: Chapter 1 has struck a chord with audiences across generations.
Its mix of spirituality, folklore, and intense storytelling has resonated deeply, transforming it from a regional hit into a cultural phenomenon.
Here’s how the top five all-time grossers in Karnataka now stand:
Kantara: Chapter 1 (2025) – Rs. 174 crore
Kantara: A Legend (2022) – Rs. 173.25 crore
K.G.F: Chapter 2 (2022) – Rs. 161.50 crore
Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017) – Rs. 127.50 crore
K.G.F: Chapter 1 (2018) – Estimated Rs. 90–105 crore
Also Read: Kantara: Chapter 1 turns ancient Indian tales into box-office gold
Following these are Pushpa: The Rule, Su From So, Kalki 2898 AD, RRR, and Baahubali: The Beginning.
Earlier record-holders like Raajakumara, which earned an estimated Rs. 50–60 crore, now seem like milestones from another era.
In an exclusive conversation with Moneycontrol, Jayaram said, “This is my 38th year in South Indian films. I have done more than 250 movies as hero in Malayalam and in Tamil also 50-60 movies I have done. Still I am, that experience, that is nothing. Still I am learning, learning, learning from each and every movie. From this movie also, just as a student I am learning so many things. Still now, from this interview, this time also I am learning, learning something.”
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